Zechariah’s Song

By Yosahandi Vega

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Scripture: Luke 1:67-79

Today we are going to reflect on “Zechariah’s Song.”

Let’s look at the context of the scripture which we have just read. We find ourselves at the moment of John the Baptist’s birth. John was the cousin of Jesus and one of the greatest prophets. At this moment, the father of John, Zechariah, was unable to speak because he did not believe the Angel Gabriel when he came to announce to him of John’s birth.  Because of this Zechariah was not able to speak for more than nine months.  Yet, at the time of John’s birth, Zechariah’s mouth was opened!  His tongue was set free to name his child. His name would be John, which means “The Lord is kind.” Then, Zechariah began to sing--his first words!

Zechariah praised God, speaking about Israel’s rescue from its enemies, the spiritual restoration, and the blessings for the Gentiles. The covenant God had made with Abraham was being fulfilled and it included blessings for all nations.  Imagine the joy Zechariah felt in those moments, the words he uttered were full of gratitude, praise, and wisdom. He continued to prophesy about the Savior and he was filled with the Holy Spirit.

Within this prophecy, Zechariah even mentions us—the Gentiles. It is beautiful to realize the opportunity we have in receiving such great blessings. In verse 74 it says, “… to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear…” We have no reason to live in fear now, for God has delivered us from any and every situation that might frighten us. Do you feel FREE?  Remember who you are and leave everything that may fill you with fear because the prophecy was fulfilled in us when we declared that Jesus is our Lord and Savior.

The freedom He gave us has a purpose. Let’s continue reading in verses 74b-75: “… and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.” We must realize that we have the opportunity to serve our God, and we are free to do so with holiness and justice.  We have an opportunity to live in righteousness and to be sanctified day by day by our God.  Are we taking this opportunity?  Are we aware of this great gift?

At the end of verse 75, it says, “before him all our days.” There is nothing greater and more beautiful than this blessing, being able to be renewed in God’s presence and enjoy the peace of living every day entering the most holy place and being in God’s arms.

Sisters, have you been able to see how blessed we are?  Do you understand how Zechariah felt?  Do you have a grateful heart?

Let’s imitate Zechariah’s praises to God, raising a new song that comes out of our hearts, and living every day aware of our freedom in God!

Questions for Reflection:

1.       Imagine the freedom and joy Zechariah felt as his speech returned. His joy turned into song. When is a time you have felt a similar joy and freedom? What was your response?
2.       The freedom Zechariah describes allows us to serve God without fear. What causes you fear?  In what way can overcoming that fear help you to serve God in a better way?
3.       Try singing a song to God today or writing a poem to express your praise and gratitude for Him.